I just finished up Kevin Vanhoozer’s Everyday Theology: How to Read Cultural Texts and Interpret Trends. Vanhoozer, in my mind, is one of the most important theologians of this generation. His theological work is probing how to contend for the faith once delivered (Jude 3) in a postmodern context. His engagement with postmodern philosophical and theological critics makes him a compelling figure, in my book. And his work is displaying a faithful biblical-theological model fully immersed in postmodern currents. If you have yet to wade into those waters with Vanhoozer I’d suggest you do so soon. But bring your waders because that which is valuable doesn’t often come easily.

The premise of this particular book is that the book of culture needs to be read and interpreted in much the same way one does any book of literature, including the scriptures. The first chapter sets the philosophical-theological framework, the last chapter gives practical suggestions as to reading any of the many cultural texts and trend, and those between the two are tangible examples of cultural exegesis.

Ranging from “The Gospel According to Safeway” to Ridley Scott’s Gladiator, from the Blogosphere to Human 2.0, this book provides helpful examples of cultural exegesis. The contributors of these essays are selections from a course on the subject that Vanhoozer teaches at Trinity Evangelical Divinity School.

Each essay represents current texts and trends that help us probe into the heart of our culture. And for the one seeking to remain faithful to Jesus doing so seems to be at the heart of the Mission of God in our world. I would submit that in order to fully engage the world in which we live, for the cause of Jesus, we must strive to become adept at reading cultural texts and trends.